Floating by the Clouds (Mohammad Awad, illus Niña Nill, Penguin)

Floating by the Clouds by Mohammad Awad is a lyrical debut picture book that explores the highs and lows of emotions, encouraging children to acknowledge and express their feelings. The central character comes to realise that it’s normal to sit with complex, storm-like emotions (clouds), it’s okay to cry instead of constantly chasing positivity (rainbows) and there is beauty in the world after the rain. Awad is a Queer, Arab, Muslim writer, director, poet, playwright and mental health advocate who brings a poetic sensibility to the text, evident in its rich, flowing language. Niña Nill’s beautiful, expressive illustrations are perfectly matched to the emotional shifts in the book. She illustrates in a soft, whimsical style that brings a sense of movement to the story, helping readers aged 5 and over to connect with the book’s themes. The story may offer meaningful support for children who experience anxiety or struggle to express emotions; however, it would be best shared with a teacher, counsellor or trusted adult who can guide discussion and unpack its more abstract ideas. Phrases such as “there is quiet before the storm and the choirs to follow soon after” may be difficult for young readers to interpret independently. This difficulty is reinforced by the repeated use of the cloud metaphor – “your cheeks filling up like the clouds” and “you must speak with your clouds” – which, while poetic, may be confusing for children who are still developing emotional literacy.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Emma Nield is a community library assistant in country South Australia and an avid reader who loves matchmaking people with the perfect story. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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